Editorial: City Officials Are Putting The Community's Safety Last

Williamsburg children are being run over by bikes almost on a daily basis as a result of the dangerous new bike lane that has been installed along Bedford Avenue.

This is unacceptable on every level and New York City must prioritize the safety of its citizens and pedestrians. This is not a new issue; the community has had many discussions with elected officials over the years and has strongly objected to the bike lane since this neighborhood consists mostly of large families with small children.

Residents and community leaders have repeatedly voiced concerns to city officials, advocating for an alternative bike route along DeKalb Avenue. This alternative was not only proposed by local residents and askanim but also approved by cyclists. However, the city denied the request, leaving residents feeling dismissed. Instead of truly addressing safety issues, city agencies have introduced loading zones, which residents feel are merely a measure to quiet their concerns rather than a real solution that prioritizes child safety.

Children should not face the threat of getting injured as they get off a school bus. Pedestrians should not have to swerve around speeding cyclists. Alternative solutions must be found to accommodate the bike lane in a way that does not put pedestrians at risk. 

W-365 News is joining the community leaders in asking that the city and its agencies listen to the community and implement solutions before G-d forbid a tragedy happens.